Groundbreaking cancer research
One of European Research Council’s latest grants awarded to Israelis is for Bar-Ilan’s project targeting Protein Degradation, aiming to revolutionize how cancer and other diseases are treated at the molecular level. It specifically involves instructing cells to destroy harmful proteins.
Cross-border operations
Two critically ill Israelis were saved thanks to the heart and lungs donated by a newly deceased patient in Cyprus. Despite a car breakdown, the organs was transported to Israel within 4 hours. In addition, in cross-donations from living donors, five Israelis and three Cypriots received a new kidney.
How to spot those at risk of genetic diseases
Researchers at Rambam Medical Center in Haifa have rewritten the book on prenatal testing for genetic diseases. The “old” method checks for identical segments (ROH) in the DNA inherited from mother and father. The new algorithm recognizes that ethnic minorities have more ROH.
Swallowing your tongue? No need to worry
A new study led by a Tel Aviv Ichilov (Sourasky) Medical Center cardiologist reveals that it is wrong (and dangerous) to check if heart attack victims risk swallowing their tongue before commencing CPR. Delays can cause death or severe anoxic brain damage
More power to the immune system
A research team led by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have boosted the immune system’s cancer-fighting ability by reprogramming. They disabled the mitochondrial protein Ant2 in T cells, forcing them to produce more energy and become stronger and better at homing in on cancer cells.
Kidney grown in the lab
Scientists from Sheba Medical Center and Tel Aviv University have taken human kidney tissue stem cells and grown a 3D organ culture (organoids) to 34 weeks maturity – the longest-lasting and purest ever developed. It will advance research into kidney disease, regenerative medicine and transplants.
Can you fight bacteria in space
Researchers at Sheba Medical Center have sent a groundbreaking scientific experiment to the International Space Station (ISS). It will study how space conditions - especially microgravity - influence bacterial virulence and resistance to antibiotics.
Reviving research terminated by the Nazis
An Israeli-led team has been awarded a $1.2 million grant by the prestigious Human Frontier Science Program (HFSP). It will study epigenetic inheritance –traits acquired from the environment can be passed to descendants. This research begun by Jewish scientists came to halt in WW2.
Agetech startups showcase in LA.
Meet 8 Israeli AgeTech medical startups at UCLA. Lunchtime on Aug 12. Buzzy, Effectivate, , , , Physiclean, & ROBE-Health. RSVP asap, if you wish to attend. Dietary laws observed.
Safer medical devices
Israel’s C2A Security (see previously) has partnered with US-based Medcrypt to integrate their security protection facilities. It ensures that every software component and artifact in a medical device is traceable, authenticated, and tamper-proof, from development through post-market updates.